The stories keep coming as I am
just four Km away from my target …..
This is a story of the famous duo
of Indian folklore – Emperor Akbar and his wise minister Birbal. Once, Akbar
and Birbal were taking a walk in the royal garden. Among other things they discussed
food. Emperor said “Eggplant is a
wonderful vegetable”. Birbal nodded “Yes Jahapanah (emperor), it is very good.
It tastes great is also good for health”. Birbal described the qualities in
detail. Hmmm… the emperor nodded and walked on.
Next day as they walked, the
emperor suddenly said, “Birbal, eggplant is a worst vegetable”. Birbal
immediately replied, “Khavind (master) I couldn’t agree more – it is terrible”.
Emperor smiled and turned around and said sarcastically, “Birbal, don’t you
have an opinion. Yesterday I said that eggplant is great to which you agreed
wholeheartedly. Today when I said eggplant is worst, you seem to agree with
that as well!” The wise Birbal stood there for a moment and quietly said, “Khavind
(master), I am your servant and not eggplant’s servant!” Emperor smiled at his favorite
minister’s wit and asked “What does that mean”. Looking at emperor’s mood
Birbal mischievously said, “Khavind (master), you generally do not like opinion
contradicting yours but eggplant does not mind!” Emperor burst out laughing….
There are many leaders who do not
tolerate a dissent. With an authority they almost dictate what should be
everyone’s opinion. Smart people working with them quickly figure it out and
align themselves to the boss – never bothering to express their real opinion.
Funny part is many leaders do not
even realize this and bask in the glory of their ideas. They also fool
themselves by thinking that they have a great wavelength with their team! What
they lose out is numerous possibilities that were never expressed and may
settle for suboptimal solutions!
So, if you feel that you have a
great wavelength with your team, please watch out for eggplant syndrome!!
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